4 Days Sahara Desert Tour from Fez to Marrakech
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4d
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About this experience
A 4-day trip to Merzouga Desert is
ideal for travelers who arrive in Fez and return home from Marrakech. As well as visiting these two incredible former Imperial Cities, you will discover the stunning Sahara Desert.
Available options
Luxury Accommodations
Riad Azawad / Moha Yut / Riad Madu
Luxury desert camp with private bathroom
Kasbah Dar Chamaa / Riad Bouchedor / Riad Tama
Standard Accommodations
Standard hotels:Merzouga (first night): Riad Mamouche / Dar Tafouyte.Merzouga (second night): Desert camp.Ouarzazate: Hotel Les Jardins de Ouarzazate / Hotel La Valle / Hotel Saghro
What's included
Camel ride to the desert camp.
Fuel, tolls and other similar costs.
Dinner
Transportation by 4x4 or Comfortable Vehicle.
Private multi day tour, for you, your family and friends.
Breakfast
English speaking Driver.
Three nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast.
Pick up service from your hotel, riad, airport or from where you want.
What you'll see
1: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Erfoud – Merzouga
Your Driver will collect you from your hotel bright and early and you will set off to Merzouga, crossing the Middle Atlas and its beautiful cedar forests, home to the friendly barbary apes.On the way, you will traverse the small village of Ifrane, popularly known as “Morocco’s Little Switzerland”, one of the most exclusive ski resorts in Morocco. Then, you will drive through Azrou, one of the most famous Berber towns in the country.
Afterwards, cross the Ziz Valley and its jagged gorges until you get to Midelt and Erfoud. From the last village, take a dirt road to Merzouga, a charming village on the edge of the desert.
You will spend the first night in a hotel near the dunes.
Day 2: Enjoying the Erg Chebbi dunes
Spend the whole second day exploring the spectacular Merzouga Desert. Plow through the golden-colored dunes on a 4x4, visit nomad hamlets, admire beautiful oases and walk along the famous Erg Chebbi dunes.
Next, visit the little village of Khamlia, where the Gnawa live. The Gnawa population are descents of Central African slaves and are famous across the world for their beautiful folk music that combines classic Islamic Sufism with their traditions.
In the evening you will be driven back to your hotel where camels will be waiting for you to take you into the heart of the dunes to spend a night in a Berber tent.
Day 3: Merzouga – Todgha Gorge – Ouarzazate
Wake up in the dark and sit on top of a dune to witness a breath-taking sunrise. Afterwards, climb back on a camel and return to the small village of Merzouga, where you will have breakfast and a refreshing shower (depending on the type of camp, your breakfast and shower might be before the camel ride). On your way to Ouarzazate you will drive past Rissani and Tafilalet, where the Alaouite dynasty of Morocco are originally from. Next, you will head to the impressive Todgha Gorge, in the Dades Valley, situated in the centre of the High Atlas Mountains.
Leave Dades Valley behind and take the route of the thousand kasbahs, admiring along the way the Valley of the Roses and Skoura’spalm grove. Finally, you will reach Ouarzazate, where you will spend the night.
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou – Marrakech
After a filling breakfast, you will be driven to the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, one of the most famous fortified cities in the world. Numerous films have been set in this charming location, including Gladiator. You will walk into the ruins of the kasbah to discover its rich history and secrets.
On our way to Marrakech, you will cross a valley full of almond trees and the picturesque Berber hamlets: Amerzgane, Agouim and Ighrem. Climb up into the depths of the Atlas through Tizi n'Tichka mountain port, 2.260 meters high, and stop to eat a traditional Moroccan meal at Tadart.
After lunch, hop back into the car and return to Marrakech.
What's not included
Drinks
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
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EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Meeting point
The blue gate Bab Boujloud
About Fez
Fez is the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, known for its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the oldest university in the world, the University of al-Qarawiyyin. It offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and traditional crafts.
Top Attractions
Fez Medina
The Fez Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old cities in the world. It's a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic sites.
Historical/Cultural
Full day
Free to explore, fees for specific sites
Al-Qarawiyyin University
Founded in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It's a significant cultural and historical site.
Historical/Educational
1-2 hours
Free
Bou Inania Madrasa
A beautiful example of Marinid architecture, this madrasa (Islamic school) is one of the few religious sites in Fez open to non-Muslims.
Historical/Architectural
30-60 minutes
Moderate
Chouara Tanneries
One of the last remaining traditional tanneries in the world, the Chouara Tanneries offer a glimpse into an ancient craft that has changed little over centuries.
Cultural/Industrial
30-60 minutes
Free (donations appreciated)
Bab Bou Jeloud
The main gate to the Fez Medina, Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and a great photo opportunity.
Architectural
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tagine
A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, served in a conical clay pot.
Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Couscous
Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and meat, often with a rich sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Pastilla
A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon meat, almonds, and sugar.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and nuts.
Harira
A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, often served during Ramadan.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Rif Mountains
Horseback riding in the countryside
Spa and hammam treatments
Strolling through the gardens of the Royal Palace
Exploring the Fez Medina
Visiting historic sites and museums
Attending traditional music and dance performances
Experiencing a traditional hammam
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. This is the best time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic, Berber
- Widely spoken: French, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Fez is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Fes-Saïss Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Fez Railway Station
By bus
Fez CTM Bus Station, Fez Supratours Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Fez. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fez Medina
Fes el Jdid
Ville Nouvelle
Day trips
Meknes
60 km • Full day
Meknes is a historic city with a rich past, known for its imperial palaces, mosques, and the famous Bab Mansour gate. It offers a mix of history, architecture, and local culture.
Volubilis
80 km • Full day
Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the remains of a Roman city. It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Morocco, offering a glimpse into the country's Roman past.
Chefchaouen
120 km • Overnight
Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town known for its blue-washed buildings, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains.
Festivals
Fez Festival of World Sacred Music • June
Fez Festival of Sufi Culture • April
Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide to navigate the medina and learn about its history and culture
- Visit the Chouara Tanneries early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Try a traditional hammam experience for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals
- Bargain politely in markets and souks, but be prepared to walk away if the price is not agreeable
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
